Gopinath Munde will always remain with people of Maharashtra: Pankaja Munde

Pankaja Munde, an MLA from Parli and daughter of late Gopinath Munde, has emerged as a confident politician, who is ready to take over her father's legacy. No more a timid young MLA, she credits her success to her "Baba", who is "always around" her guiding her through the tough political career.
Core committee member of state BJP and president of BJP Yuva Morcha, Pankaja says she will never beg for a position in the party as a 'pity case' in place of her father, but will 'earn' it with hard work and integrity on the path shown by him.
dna spoke to her on her future plans, her family and the vacuum created in Maharashtra after her father's death.

How was your Sangharsh Yatra?
I kicked it off in Maharashtra from Sindhkhed — the birthplace of Jijamata — and ended it at Chaundi — the birthplace of Ahilyabai Holkar. Both places were close to my father's heart. I covered more than 3,000km to connect with my father's supporters. I met them, communicated with them, and received an overwhelming response. They want me to take his place. I am trying to fulfil their expectations.

Is the attention you are receiving from the party just a pity case?
I have my father's blood in my veins. I will never beg for anything. I am capable of earning my position. I have urged party leaders, members and cadres to not look at me with pity. I have blessings of the people of Maharashtra, and I will not let them down. I will never for ask my baba's position at the cost of my self-respect. I will claim my share with my hard work and fulfil his dream for the people of the state.

Do you feel you can handle the role of a leader and the limelight you are receiving?
I have seen my father in politics since I was a child. I am following in his footsteps. He has mentored me very well. I got hands-on experience when I became president of BJP's youth wing — Yuva Morcha. When I expressed my wish to campaign for him during Lok Sabha elections, he insisted that I travel to each and every village and town across Maharashtra. My father wanted me to meet people and understand their problems. When I went through that grilling exercise, I understood why he wanted me to see Maharashtra. My father posed faith in me and had always been guiding me. Each time I got a chance, I would blindly take the plunge, because I knew he was there like a harness to save me if I fall. But now he is not there and so I have to learn to walk without him. However, when I meet party workers and leaders, I am reassured that I am not alone.

Why did you not choose to be in Delhi and stayed in Maharashtra politics?
This land (Maharashtra) is where my baba's soul belongs. He always strove for the betterment of the downtrodden and underprivileged people here. I wanted to continue his legacy. He wanted justice for his people. I will fulfil his dream. Though he is not with us anymore, I feel he is still here, somewhere, watching me, guiding me, and encouraging me to work for the people.

Will BJP emerge as the single largest party in state after the split with Shiv Sena?
Yes, we all have worked extensively in our individual capacities and as a team. Under the guidance of Modiji and Amitbhai Shah, the senior leaders of Maharashtra have taken precaution for every single thing. Let other parties believe, but we know we will succeed in the end.